Old Faithful Trespasser Waives Hearing in Cheyenne Police Chase

A man who led Cheyenne police on a wild chase just days after he was caught on video appearing to urinate on Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone National Park has waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Gabriel Villalva, of Greeley, Colorado, was arrested on Sept. 19 after leading police on a 15-minute pursuit which ended with his SUV catching fire.

​During the chase, Villalva reportedly swerved towards an officer who was attempting to deploy tire spikes, crashed into a patrol car and drove onto the Cheyenne Country Club golf course.

When asked why he ran from the police, Villalva reportedly said, "I was running from my family, there's only one God." Police say he also asked, "Do you think you can stop the fountains at Yellowstone with a car?"

Villalva is charged with interference with a peace officer-injury, reckless driving and eluding. He could face up to 11 years and/or $11,500 in fines if convicted.

​Villalva remains jailed on a $10,000 cash bond. His arraignment date has not yet been set.